Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I would like to concur with the Leader of the Opposition in expressing sympathy to the Ryan family on the tragedy that occurred in Baltimore as a result of a freak wave. What happened there was extremely tragic, and we are aware of all the other tragic situations.

I did not get an opportunity yesterday to join in the expressions of sympathy extended to the bereaved families of the 38 people who were slaughtered in the massacre in Tunisia. They were defenceless holidaymakers. Those who perpetuated the atrocity set out to destroy the economy of that region, and this will destroy it. Larry and Martina Hayes of Westlodge, Athlone, County Westmeath, died, along with Lorna Carty, who was holidaying with her husband, Declan, from Robinstown, County Meath. Martina Hayes, née Kelly, was from Kiltoom, County Roscommon, and was a member of a large and well-respected family. I know her brother Billy and his wife Caroline, and the couple who died had one daughter, Sinead. It is a terrible tragedy.

Tunisia, Morocco and the other countries in that region are in a state of crisis. When referring to the Egyptian coastal resort of Sharm el-Sheik on the Sinai Peninsula, I note that the website of the Department of Foreign Affairs advises Irish citizens to exercise caution, to arrive and depart by air and to avoid travelling outside the resort.They almost become prisoners in the resort they choose. It would be advisable at this time for people not to travel to these countries when they are in such a state of chaos. There is not a great deal of security in operation on the part of the Tunisians. Also, I hope they release the bodies shortly. People should be advised also not to wear any emblems that would identify them as being Christians because they might become targets for assassination in those areas. The situation is very serious and, unfortunately, it all goes back to the disruption of that region by Bush and Blair.